I don't know if I agree with Vince's point that democracies are dangerous. Hell, I don't think I've ever even seen a real democractic form of government on a large scale. It's not feasible. It may be the case in small discussion groups or business meetings but not to run a country. Vince IS correct in stating that calling our country a democracy is a misnomer and it's a pet peeve that makes me cringe when I hear it. It's a republic ... as in based on the ancient greek republics. There are aspects of democracy to it such as when you vote. Maybe just maybe at that time ... and this is stretching it ... can you call it a democracy. Then, it's over in an instant and the people you have chosen to represent you in our great republic are free to do their bidding. Sure, you can watch them do their thing ... it's an open forum (mostly) ... but it's no longer a democracy. I know that this may seem nit-picky but it's just a pet peeve of mine.
Case in Point: If the founding fathers were truly interested in the opinions of "Joe Six-Pack", what the hell is the "electoral college" about? That's just one example of how out country is NOT a true democracy. I can go through the Constitution and find many other examples. Like I said, it's a pet peeve.
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